What might seem like a positive is creating a false sense of security according to a Medical Health Officer.

Even though there doesn't seem to be as much of a risk with West Nile cases in the region this year compared to last, officials are still saying that there's a strong possibility that a resident could contract the virus.

"We're getting more positive pools, which means more mosquitoes in the traps that are actually carrying the virus. That has a really important relevance for people to take more precautions because we know for sure that mosquitoes are infected," explained Dr David Torr, Consulting Medical Health Officer.

According to the Saskatchewan Health Authority, during the first week of August, the number of mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile was 6.6%, but it jumped to 22.4% the following week in our region.

"One thing that is deceptive is that this year the mosquito numbers are relatively low, but although they are low it's the type of mosquito that carries the West Nile Virus that is comprising the most significant proportion of the total mosquito population," added Dr Torr. "It's out there and we need to take precautions."

He also suggests covering up with long-sleeved shirts and wearing long pants to protect yourself, along with spraying bug repellent on your body and not spending long periods of time outside.

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